NEWCASTLE UNITED'S survival hopes may have been boosted by Swansea City's win over Wigan Athletic on Tuesday, but it is looking increasingly likely they will have to play their final two games without Moussa Sissoko.

The Magpies and Sunderland breathed a collective sign of relief when Swansea came from behind to defeat Roberto Martinez's side, but the two North-East clubs are still not clear of danger.

The Latics remain three points behind Newcastle, Sunderland and Norwich going into the final two games. This weekend the North-East sides face Queens Park Rangers and Southampton respectively.

With Arsenal the visitors to St James' Park on the final day, pressure is mounting on the Magpies to get a result at Loftus Road, but it appears they will be without Sissoko.

The French midfielder missed last weekend's draw with West Ham United because of a knee injury that has prevented him from training this week.

With their Premier League status at stake, Magpies boss Alan Pardew will give Sissoko every chance to prove his fitness.

Shola Ameobi is already a major doubt for Sunday after he hurt his foot and knee at Upton Park before leaving the ground on crutches.